Governor Janet Mills has officially proclaimed Feb. 24 to March 2, 2025, as Invasive Species Awareness Week in Maine.
This proclamation coincides with National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW), an annual event dedicated to raising public awareness about the environmental and economic threats posed by invasive species.
The week serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations to help prevent and manage invasive species across the state.
Governor Mills said:
Invasive species threaten Maine’s natural landscapes, forests, and waters. By taking proactive steps to prevent their spread, we can help protect our environment, economy, and way of life for generations to come.
NISAW is an annual event recognized across the United States to promote knowledge and action in the fight against invasive species. Invasive species threaten ecosystems, agriculture, and economies, making prevention and management crucial to preserving natural habitats and local industries.
Here are some ways individuals can contribute to slowing or preventing the spread of invasive species in Maine:
- Identify and Remove Invasive Plants: Familiarize yourself with early-detection, invasive plants like Japanese stiltgrass, mile-a–minute vine, report them with photos to horticulture@maine.gov, and volunteer with local land trusts or conservation commissions to remove these and established invasives like Asiatic bittersweet from public lands. See the Maine Invasive Plant Field Guide for help.
- Identify Emerald Ash Borer Signs: Learn to recognize emerald ash borer infestation signs, particularly during winter when “blonding” on ash trees is noticeable. Report findings using the EAB Report Form.
- Report Tree of Heaven Sightings: Keep your eyes out for tree of heaven, which hosts the invasive spotted lanternfly. Report sightings to invasives.mnap@maine.gov.
- Combat Browntail Moth: Check hardwood trees and shrubs for browntail moth winter webs and eliminate them before April, when the caterpillars become active.
- Prevent the Spread of Invasive Earthworms: Take measures to prevent the spread of invasive earthworms, which disrupt forest soils, by avoiding the movement of plants, soil, mulch, or leaves.
- Use Local Firewood: When camping, avoid transporting firewood to prevent the spread of invasive pests. Purchase firewood locally. Check Firewoodscout.org for local options.
- Practice Play Clean Go: Clean hiking gear, ATVs, and other equipment to prevent invasive species from spreading to new locations.
- Follow Clean, Drain, Dry: Protect waterways by cleaning, draining, and drying boats and equipment after use. Consider joining organizations like Lake Stewards of Maine for additional involvement.
- Explore Invasive Species Programs run by the State of Maine.
- Contribute to citizen science efforts to document invasive species by setting up a free account with iMap Invasives.
- Follow Maine Invasive Species Network Facebook page.
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